ants by the end of 2001.In summary, Dardens goal is to increase its hold on the market while maintaining its core values. It hopes to capitalize on people between the ages of 40 and 60, a group whose numbers will increase dramatically over the next ten years. Darden also wants to capitalize on the growing number of dual income families. It will do this by remaining true to its mission of being brilliant with the basics. COMPANY STRENGTHS AND WEAKNESSESTangible and intangible resources are the basis for company strengths and weaknesses. It is crucial that a company identify these areas to both take advantage of opportunities and protect itself from competitors. Dardens strengths are in its organizational methods, human resources, innovation, and its good reputation. On the other hand, Dardens weaknesses exist in its finances and in its portfolio diversity.Company StrengthsOne of Dardens strengths is its organizational methods. With over one thousand restaurants, Darden has a solid infrastructure in place, for conducting market research, buying real estate, developing and building new restaurants, and running its operations. This infrastructure enables Darden to expand quickly, as seen in Olive Gardens growth from one restaurant in 1983 to more than 400 in 1993. Furthermore, Dardens infrastructure acts as a guarantee that all restaurants will reflect the quality of experience with which Darden is synonymous.Several intangible assets also contribute to Dardens standing. Darden has a very strong human resources operation, which has developed a good reputation within the industry for providing a pleasant and empowering work environment. Darden is able to combat the industrys high turnover rate. This saves the company considerable time and money in recruiting and training costs.Dardens innovation is another strength. Bahama Breeze is a good example of how Darden is able to identify what people want in a dining experience, and then meet that...
